# Washington State Appoints New CISO

Washington State has appointed Gwen Gann, a private sector technology leader, as its new Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) to lead the Office of Cybersecurity. Her role focuses on enhancing the state's cybersecurity strategy, network protection, and incident response capabilities across state government agencies and partners. This leadership change signals a strategic emphasis on strengthening cybersecurity posture through collaboration and innovation within Washington's public sector.

- **Why this matters:** Procurement professionals should anticipate increased demand for cybersecurity solutions and services aligned with the state's enhanced strategy under new leadership.
- The appointment may lead to new or revised cybersecurity requirements and initiatives impacting vendors and contractors working with Washington State.
- Organizations providing cybersecurity technology, consulting, or incident response services can evaluate opportunities to support Washington's Office of Cybersecurity efforts.
- This development highlights the importance of public-private partnerships and innovative approaches in state-level cybersecurity procurement and governance.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Public Safety, Information Technology
**Topics:** Cybersecurity
**Published:** September 21, 2026

### Government Entities
- Office of Cybersecurity
- Washington Technology Solutions (WaTech)
- Washington State

### Key Quotes
> Our conversations throughout the process reinforced how much opportunity exists to strengthen cybersecurity across Washington through partnership, thoughtful stewardship, and a willingness to challenge what can be better.
> — Gwen Gann, Chief Information Security Officer

### Sources
- [Washington state names private sector tech leader as new chief information security officer | StateScoop](https://statescoop.com/washington-state-names-private-sector-tech-leader-as-new-chief-information-security-officer) - StateScoop